What should you do first when a firearm misfires?

When a firearm misfires, the primary concern is safety. The correct initial response involves counting to 60 while maintaining the firearm in a safe direction. This approach is crucial because it allows time for any potential hangfire—a situation where the round may not ignite immediately but could discharge after a short delay. By keeping the muzzle pointed away from yourself and others, you minimize the risk of injury or damage in the unlikely event that the firearm discharges unexpectedly.

Counting to 60 serves as a precautionary measure, ensuring that the shooter does not rush into an action that could lead to harm. After this waiting period, the shooter can safely proceed to investigate the cause of the misfire or follow proper protocols for handling such situations.